AAH Pharmaceuticals calls for action on drug shortages

AAH Pharmaceuticals has called on the government to take a more proactive stance in addressing delays in the supply of prescription medicines that are affecting the UK.

Mark James, group managing director of AAH and chairman of the British Association of Pharmaceutical Wholesalers, said the Department of Health is being "worryingly complacent" about this issue at present.

The comment comes in response to recent comments by health minister Simon Burns suggesting that the department retains faith in its current arrangements for dealing with shortages, following queries by Conservative MP Margot James.

Mr James refuted these claims, stating that the government's guidance has yet to make any impact on the shortages.

"Wholesalers have put forward constructive proposals … but we will not make progress unless the Department of Health is willing to play its part," he added.

Last month, the company introduced a new arrangement with Alcon Pharmaceuticals to help fulfil emergency orders for Travatan, Duotrav and Azopt.